Helsinki is the capital of Finland, located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, which has formed the former capital city into a peninsula. It is the westernmost capital of any Nordic country and one of the northernmost capitals of Europe. The city is located next to Turku, which is the second-largest city in Finland.
Why should you visit Helsinki?
Helsinki is a beautiful capital city with a lot to see and do for the entire family. It is a vibrant, creative, and cutting-edge city brimming with history, culture, and modern amenities. The city itself is centered on a beautiful harbor and the views of the Gulf of Finland are simply breathtaking. It is also a great place to spend time with friends and family since it is the home of some of the world’s best parks, museums, and hotels.
Five Must-See Places when Traveling to Helsinki
If you are to visit this capital city during the holidays, what are the things that you should see? Well, here are the five things you should see when traveling to Helsinki:
Helsinki Cathedral
The 1000-year-old Cathedral of Helsinki is the country’s most important cultural site, housing some of the country’s most precious art and artifacts, celebrating Finnish history and the country’s greatest artists. The cathedral has a tradition of welcoming visitors from far and wide.
Sea Fortress Suomenlinna
Sea fort Suomenlinna is a well-preserved fortress island located in eastern Helsinki, in the heart of the city’s harbour and the country’s capital. The fortress can be reached by walking or by boat. The fortress was built in the early 15th century to protect the city from Russian threats. The fortress was reinforced many times in history, and the last major reconstruction was done in the early 20th century.
Temppeliaukio Church
You may think of the Old Town and its beautiful architecture when you think of Helsinki. But if you are visiting Helsinki, make sure you visit the Temppeliaukio Church, which stands in the city centre. The Temppeliaukio Church, which was built in 1747, is the oldest church in Helsinki and a major historical landmark. The church is located on the island of Temppeliaukio, which is connected to the rest of Helsinki by a bridge across the river. The country’s tourism website suggests that you can get to Temppeliaukio Church by walking across the Temppeliaukio Bridge, which is located near the Kamppi metro station. Or you can take the metro, tram, or City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing bus.
Kamppi Chapel of Silence
Kamppi Chapel of Silence is an unusual place. Built in 1852, it is the oldest functioning chapel in Finland and one of the oldest in the world, if you include the gothic chapels in Scotland. The original chapel was built by the Swedish architect Carl Ludvig Engel. It was meant to be a place for people of different religious backgrounds to come together for prayer and spiritual growth, but it was also a unique place for people to get married.
Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
Located on the northern coast of Helsinki, Seurasaari open-Air Museum is one of the city’s most popular destinations. With its unique setting overlooking the Gulf of Finland, the Museum is set within a picturesque forest of trees, boasting an impressive collection of Finnish art and design and an extensive collection of art and craft produced in the Nordic countries.
Helsinki is a beautiful city with a lot of history, culture, and natural beauty, and it’s the perfect place to explore, whether you’re embarking on an adventurous trip or just looking for a break from the everyday. Since it’s the capital of Finland, you’ll find that there are lots of worthwhile things to do, see and experience.